We're hitting "replay" and raising a mug of cocoa! ☕️🎄

Each year, our PeopleForward Network team takes a full holiday break to rest, be with our people, and come back recharged for the new year. So this week, instead of a brand-new episode, we're sharing one of our all-time favorite conversations for you to enjoy again.

Curl up, press play, and soak in the inspiration while you enjoy your own holiday downtime. Thanks for listening and letting this show be part of your year. We're excited to keep growing with you in the new one.

Ready, Set, Go! 📣 In this high-energy episode of Coach to Coach, host Brandon Miller is joined by two powerhouse global strengths coaches, Charlotte Blair and Caren Leaf, for a lively deep-dive into the Activator strength. Buckle up as they share personal stories, light up the room with bold insights, and reveal what it's like to be the ones always itching to hit the ground running. From childhood go-getters to professional momentum-makers, Charlotte and Caren explore how this strength shows up across generations, and why Activators might just be the spark every team needs.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Activator is about taking action and initiating change.
• Personal experiences shape how we understand our strengths.
• The Activator strength can lead to impatience but also resilience.
• Childhood experiences often highlight the early signs of strengths.
• Activator can be a superpower in professional settings.

📚 Additional Resources

• Caren Leaf: leafconsultingllc.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/caren-leaf-msw-8665a57a/
• Charlotte Blair: www.charlotteblair.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotteblair/
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

What really happens when you're wired to win, check all the boxes, and still feel like it's not enough? 🤔 In this episode, host Brandon Miller is joined by Kelly Dries and Aliza Litke, two high-performing leaders who both live and lead with the Achiever strength… in totally different ways.

They get real about burnout, boundaries, and why crossing things off a to-do list feels so satisfying. From calendars to competition, celebrating wins to staying sane, this conversation is packed with insights, laughter, and that "oh wow, it's not just me" kind of honesty.

🏆 Whether you're a fellow Achiever or you lead one, this one's for you!

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Achiever strength is common and impactful.
• Achievers often have a love-hate relationship with their drive.
• To-do lists serve as a form of meditation for Achievers.
• Achievers prioritize tasks, including personal relationships.
• Empathy enhances the effectiveness of Achievers.

📚 Additional Resources

• Aliza Litke, 3E Compass Solutions, LLC: http://www.linkedin.com/in/aliza-litke-phr-938b5533
• Kelly Dries, Dries Coaching & Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydries/
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Leading with confidence and calm under pressure with the strength of Self-Assurance 🛡️ In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller engages with Kori Czasnojc and Jennifer Selke to explore the often-misunderstood strength of Self-Assurance and how it shows up in leadership and coaching.

They discuss how this rare strength drives internal conviction, resilience, and trust in one's decisions, even in the face of external doubt. The conversation touches on cultural perceptions, how Self-Assurance partners with other strengths, and what it means to lead from a place of clarity rather than ego. With personal stories and practical insight, this episode invites listeners to better understand the steady power of Self-Assurance and how to support it in others.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Self-Assurance is often misunderstood as arrogance or overconfidence.
• The internal experience of Self-Assurance can differ from external perceptions.
• Self-Assurance can enhance leadership presence and influence.
• Cultural factors can affect how Self-Assurance is perceived and valued.
• Self-Assurance is rare in strengths profiles, making it unique.

📚 Additional Resources:

• Kori Czasnojc- Owner of Cultivate2Grow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/koriczasnojc/
• Jennifer Selke, PhD-Co-Founder of WorkStrengths: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennselke/
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Solving problems with care and clarity through the strength of Restorative 🛠️ In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller engages with Dr. Erin Wheeler and Svetlana Sereda to explore the strength of Restorative and its role in coaching, leadership, and personal growth.

They discuss how this strength shows up alongside others like Intellection and Responsibility, and how it helps individuals approach problems with intentionality and empathy. Through personal stories and coaching insights, the conversation highlights the challenge of carrying emotional weight, the gift of seeing what is broken and fixing it, and the importance of connection in the problem-solving process.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Restorative strengths focus on uncovering and improving issues.
• The combination of Restorative and Intellection enhances problem-solving capabilities.
• Responsibility can lead to burnout if not managed properly.
• Setting boundaries is crucial for those with Restorative strengths.
• Restorative individuals often see problems that others overlook.

📚 Additional Resources:

• Svetlana Sereda, Drive and Clarity: https://driveandclarity.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/svetlanasereda/
• Dr. Erin Wheeler, Gracefully Productive - Founder and CEO: www.gracefullyproductive.com Linkedin.com/in/erinwheelerphd
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Showing up with consistency and care through the strength of Responsibility 🧭 In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller discusses the theme of Responsibility with strengths coaches Brenda Jochum and Angeline Soon. They explore personal experiences with this strength, its superpowers, and the challenges it brings in both personal and professional life.

The conversation dives into how Responsibility interacts with other strengths, the importance of saying no, and how to manage the inward pressure that often comes with high ownership. Brenda and Angeline reflect on the balance between commitment and capacity, and the role accountability partners play in helping leaders lead with clarity and care.

💥 Key Takeaways:

- Responsibility comes alive when others are counting on you. - Taking on too much can be a common challenge for those with high Responsibility. - Responsibility is often tied to a sense of care and respect for others. - The strength of Responsibility can lead to people-pleasing tendencies. - Saying yes to too many commitments can dilute the value of your yes.

📚 Additional Resources:

- Angeline Soon Founder and Consultant of Amplify Soon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angeline-soon/ - Brenda Jochum Founder of Strengths Connection: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajochum/ - Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/ - Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com - Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network - Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Building trust and deepening connection with the strength of Relator 🤝 In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller, Stacy Crawford, and Ray Swarts explore the loyal, connection-driven strength of Relator and how it helps leaders foster meaningful relationships at work and beyond.

They share how Relator brings depth, trust, and authenticity to team dynamics, while also examining the potential risks of over-identifying with close circles. From managing boundaries to navigating relational fatigue, the conversation offers insight into how to lead with both care and clarity. Whether you're a natural Relator or work closely with one, this episode reveals how vulnerability, loyalty, and intentional connection can fuel high-performing teams and lasting impact.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Relator is about forming deep, trusting relationships.
• High Relators often have concentric circles of trust.
• Relator can be a superpower in leadership.
• Understanding Relator helps in managing team dynamics.
• Relator thrives in environments that foster connection.

📚 Additional Resources:

• Ray Swarts Owner of Leadership Imperative: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-swarts-shrm-cp/
• Stacy Crawford Founder and Lead Coach of Klear Water Coaching & Wellness LLC: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacycrawford-klearwater/
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Leading with optimism and setting boundaries with the strength of Positivity ☀️ In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller, Jaclynn Robinson and Jane McCarthy explore the energizing strength of Positivity and how it uplifts people, teams, and culture.

They dive into how Positivity fuels hope, helps reframe challenges, and creates momentum through celebration and encouragement. The conversation also explores the importance of setting healthy boundaries, cultivating resilience, and using optimism to lead with emotional intelligence and connection. Through stories and insights, this episode shows how Positivity can be a powerful tool for motivation, trust-building, and long-term impact in both personal and professional relationships.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Positivity is a superpower that helps overcome obstacles.
• Hope and Positivity fuel resilience and growth.
• Recognizing achievements fosters a positive culture.
• Setting boundaries is essential for healthy relationships.
• Positivity can help see possibilities instead of problems.

📚 Additional Resources:

• Jane McCarthy, Executive Coach: JaneStorm.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-mccarthy-janestorm/
• Jaclynn Robinson, Founder and Executive Coach of Nine Muses Consulting, LLC: www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynnrobinson
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Creating clarity and impact with the strength of Maximizer ✨ In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller speaks with Jayne Jenkins and Anthony Kavouras about how their shared Maximizer strengths shape the way they work, lead, and collaborate.

They unpack how Maximizers thrive on refining what's already working, and how that mindset can drive high performance when paired with clear priorities and aligned teams. From learning how to manage pace and perfectionism to raising others up and knowing when to move on, this conversation offers honest reflections and practical tools for turning potential into excellence.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Maximizers thrive on collaboration and teamwork.
• Working with fellow Maximizers can be both fun and challenging.
• It's essential to prioritize tasks to maximize effectiveness.
• Data can help in making decisions and knowing when to stop.
• Raising others up is a crucial aspect of being a Maximizer.

📚 Additional Resources:

• Jayne Jenkins, CEO, Churchill Leadership Group: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaynejenkins/
• Anthony Kavouras, President, 34Strong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-kavouras-34strong/
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Embracing growth and curiosity with the strength of Learner 📚 In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller is joined by Lindsay Moskovitz and Jeff Williamson to explore the dynamic, ever-evolving strength of Learner and how it fuels development in leadership and life.

They share how a love for learning drives momentum, strengthens relationships, and builds confidence across different roles and environments. From the thrill of the learning journey to the practical tools that help Learners stay focused, this episode unpacks how curiosity can be a consistent driver of purpose and performance. It is a celebration of progress, reflection, and the belief that growth is always possible.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Learner is a common strength that many people relate to.
• Curiosity is a key component of the Learner strength.
• Learners often seek to understand the 'why' behind information.
• The Learner strength is crucial for effective leadership.
• Curiosity can enhance relationship building and communication.

📚 Additional Resources:

• Lindsay Moskovitz HR Business Partner at Stryker: www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaymoskovitz/
• Jeff Williamson Executive Coach at Converge: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjeffwilliamson/
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Thinking deeply and honoring complexity with the strength of Intellection 🧠 In this episode of Coach to Coach, Brandon Miller is joined by Caroline Dey and Dave Taylor to explore the reflective, thought-centered strength of Intellection and how it shapes their growth, leadership, and coaching.

They share how Intellection helps them slow down to think critically, ask better questions, and process their experiences on a deeper level. From pairing Intellection with Input and Learner to navigating overstimulation and team dynamics, this conversation is a thoughtful dive into the value of introspection, curiosity, and meaningful dialogue.

💥 Key Takeaways:

• Intellection is about deep thinking and processing information.
• Understanding your strengths can lead to better self-awareness.
• The combination of strengths can create powerful partnerships.
• Balancing strengths like Achiever and Intellection can be challenging.
• Coaching is essential for personal and professional growth.

📚 Additional Resources:

• Dave Taylor: Leadership Coach Next Summit Advisors, LLC: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmidave81/
• Caroline Dey: Global Leadership Development Program Lead - Accenture: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdeymba/
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-miller-34strong/
• Learn more about 34 Strong: https://www.34strong.com
• Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network
• Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/